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Wield The (Smaller) Power Sword of He-Man With This Power-Con Exclusive

If you can’t make it to Power-Con this year, fear not! The He-Man convention’s exclusive Power Sword is now available to order directly from Factory Entertainment. In addition, the “Chromatic Variant” of the sword that allows Prince Adam to call upon the power of Grayskull is limited to only 1,000.
The sword is priced at $35.00 and is ready to ship. Click here to get yours ordered.

Factory Entertainment
Factory Entertainment

A high quality, officially licensed scaled prop replica chromatic variant Power-Con exclusive of the Sword of Power from the Masters Of The Universe. This stunning 8-inch heavy duty scaled prop replica is moulded out of solid metal. Each scaled replica comes in collector ready to display packaging

This isn’t the only replica that Factory Entertainment is making for the Masters of the Universe franchise. We’d previously reported on the company’s upcoming full-size replica of the Power Sword. Also available are the Havoc Staff and Teela’s Staff of Ka.

Power-Con 2021 kicks off at Anaheim, California, on September 11th and runs until the 13th. Guests for this year’s convention include Super7’s Jason Moore, artist Han Cholo, YouTube’s Pixel Dan, MotU ’87 production designer William Stout, She-Ra’s voice actress Melendy Britt, and Skeletor himself Alan Oppenheimer! Of course, that’s only a few of the guests. Check out the entire roster here.
What are your thoughts on full-size and scaled-down replicas of fantasy weaponry? A cool way to show your love of a show or movie? Or is it the road to inceldom? Let us know in the comments.
[Source: Factory Entertainment]

Aoshima’s ‘Knight Rider’ Model Kits Will Be Easier To Find In 2022

The Aoshima Knight Rider models aren’t exactly easy to come by these days. I’ll occasionally spot one in the wild with a price tag of $70+. Today we discovered more reasonably priced kits, including the harder-to-find ones, available at the Big Bad Toy Store.
Since these are pre-order, it would be reasonable to guess that Aoshima is re-issuing the classic kits of KITT, Super Pursuit Mode KITT, and the F.L.A.G. Mobile Unit. The model kits are priced at $33.99, $39.99, and $69.99, respectively. Each vehicle is 1/24th scale, and assembly is required. The release date for all three is listed as January 2022.

Aoshima
Aoshima
Aoshima
The Aoshima KITT models are far superior to the AMT release. Those familiar with AMT models know how dodgy the assembly can be, and the accuracy is usually way off when it comes to TV and movie kits. Check out the assembly video below of an Aoshima KITT being assembled.

The F.L.A.G. truck is something I’ve never seen on shelves before. I wasn’t even aware that it existed previously.
The truck itself has a pretty interesting history for those of us interested in what happens to movie and TV vehicles. This past year the original F.L.A.G. truck was located and may be restored. Check out that video here:

The tale of the screen-used KITTs is interesting, too. There were so many re-paints, reuses, and mangled stunt cars in the wake of the show’s four-season run. Even the story behind the KITT that appeared at Universal Studios Hollywood is enthralling.

I saw that KITT when I was a kid, and before they put in the perforated “pee seats.” It was just as cool as sitting in a Barris original Batmobile. So much history packed into those vehicles that it almost courses through you when you sit in the driver’s seat.
Are you a model maker? What are some of your favorite kits that you’ve assembled over the years? Let us know in the comments.
[Source: Big Bad Toy Store]

Comic Book Writer Jason Aaron Discusses New Conan the Barbarian Saga

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Conan the Barbarian has been a staple in American pop culture ever since Robert E. Howard introduced him into the pages of the pulps in 1932. Since then, the fantasy character has been featured in films, animation, television, and, of course, comic books. In fact, Marvel is relaunching him with ‘King Conan.’ The creative team of writer Jason Aaron, artist Mahmud Asrar, and colorist Matt Wilson are returning to the title after having worked on a previous Conan project.
Jason Aaron recently spoke about the saga and what new adventures Conan will face in an announcement obtained by Newsarama.
Aaron explained, “I knew as soon as Mahmud, Matt and I finished ‘The Life and Death of Conan’ in Conan the Barbarian, one of the absolute personal highlights from my career as a comic book writer, that I wasn’t done hanging out with everyone’s favorite Cimmerian.” He continued, “As King Conan rode into the sunset at the end of that story, with his son, Prince Conn, by his side, I always knew where I wanted that story to take us next.”
“Now, at last, comes that next chapter, as Mahmud, Matt and I reunite to reveal a pivotal moment in Conan’s life as a king, as a father, as a mortal enemy of snake-worshipping Stygian wizards and as a barbarian who was born to chase the wind, even to the ends of the earth,” Aaron said.
‘King Conan’ goes on sale on December 15 and will run for six issues. They released a preview of issue one’s cover:


Conan the Barbarian, also known as Conan the Cimmerian, first appeared in ‘Weird Tales,’ in a story titled “By This Axe I Rule!” He would go on to appear in other titles before graduating into his own series of novels and novellas. The last story Howard wrote about the character was titled “Red Nails,” published in 1936.

Europe Is Getting HBO Max In October

Europeans are about to get superheroes, documentaries, sci-fi dramas, and Hollywood classics as HBO Max has announced their expansion into Europe. Kicking off in October, Warner Media will introduce their streaming service in stages starting with Spain and the Nordics before going further into the continent with the exception of the UK.
NME notes, “HBO Max is set to launch in a number of countries across Europe but there are no plans for a UK platform yet.”
Here is the launch trailer:

According to a press release from HBO Max:

“HBO Max, WarnerMedia’s direct-to-consumer streaming platform, will launch in Europe on October 26 with Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, Spain and Andorra being the first six European countries where the all-new streaming experience will be made available. In 2022 HBO Max will become available in the following 14 additional territories as part of its phased global roll-out: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia and Slovenia. Additional territory launches are also planned for next year. HBO Max will be unveiled to Europe at a virtual launch event in October, showcasing the product and content offering, price points and much more.HBO Max will offer a world of high-quality entertainment from WarnerMedia’s beloved content brands, including Warner Bros., HBO, DC and Cartoon Network, as well as award-winning U.S. and international Max Originals, all in one place for the first time in Europe.”

Head of HBO Max International Johannes Larcher expressed his enthusiasm for the move, saying, “This is a historic moment as HBO Max lands in Europe.” He continued, “WarnerMedia movies and series like Harry Potter, Game of Thrones and The Big Bang Theory are passionately consumed by fans all across Europe, and HBO Max has been created to provide them with the most intuitive and convenient viewing experience to watch these and a diverse range of other amazing titles.”

Gotta Snack Them All? Pokémon Oreos are Here To Ruin Your Diet

Oreo cookies over the years have been known to come in many fun, unique, and interesting flavors. Some had gimmicks like Pop Rocks or marshmallow bits. Others tasted like Peeps. Some allegedly tasted like Lady Gaga, but I’ll take their word for it.
The company synonymous with creme-filled sandwich cookies is sending customers on a hunt to catch 16 different Pokémon. Available for pre-order now, Oreo is making packages of their snack-themed after the long-running creature collecting game. Each package will consist of wafers stamped with familiar creatures from the franchise’s universe. Apparently, some of the characters will be rarer than others.

Oreo

Discover 16 unique Pokémon designs while enjoying America’s favorite sandwich cookie with these limited-edition OREO Chocolate Sandwich Cookies. There are 16 Pokémon-themed OREO cookies to discover. But be aware, some Pokémon are harder to find than others. With a random assortment of Pokémon designs in every package, each package is a chance to find all 16, including one super rare Mythical Pokémon.

Is Mondelez International really trying to get you to buy a bunch of packages to “collect” rare Pokémon-imprinted cookies?! Phew. That’s a bit predatory. On the other hand, I used to speak at weight-loss groups about overcoming junk food urges, which would certainly make for a good subject.
Gotta catch them all … and snack on them all. In reality, the only thing you’re going to catch by downing 2,100 calorie boxes of sugar and fat is diabetes. Collecting food similar to how we collect comics, cards, or action figures is weird. How do you preserve a cookie? Dip it in resin? Vacuum seal it? This whole thing confuses me.

What are your thoughts on using the collecting aspect of Pokémon to sell boxes of cookies? Clever marketing or a health concern waiting to happen? Let us know in the comments.
[Source: Oreo]

HBO Max Is Making A Batman Radio Drama With Rosario Dawson as Catwoman

Tired of endless CW shows that never live up to the comic books they’re based on? Well, maybe it’s time to let your mind do the heavy lifting of creating the imagery with the assistance of Hollywood voice talent. That’s what is in store with HBO Max‘s new podcast series Batman: The Audio Adventures.
Westworld’s Jeffrey Wright will be voicing Bruce/Batman, while Rosario Dawson will appear as Catwoman. Joining them are several familiar who piqued my interest. Notably, John Leguizamo taking on the role of the Riddler. Brooke Shields, Brent Spiner, and Kenan Thompson are some of the others who will be joining in on the Gotham City tales, too.

HBO Max

In the scripted audio original, produced in partnership with Warner Bros. and DC, Gotham City comes to lurid life in the theater of your mind with a sensational pageant of technicolor villainy unlike any other on Earth. Mafioso Penguins. Thieving Catwomen. Terrorizing Riddlers. Killing Jokers. A city where some problems can only be solved by a billionaire in a bat costume.

Radio dramas and comic books have gone hand in hand for many years. I was a big fan of The Shadow radio shows when they were re-released during the mid-1990s. There’s just something about the artistry that goes into painting that mental picture with just a few sound effects and a couple of actors coming at you through a speaker.
Of course, Batman is no stranger to having his adventures told via this method. For example, shortly after the Knightfall saga ended, an audio dramatization was created that was pretty good. Check it out below.

Audio dramas may seem quaint by today’s standards, but I’m old enough to remember when they were one of the few ways to get new Doctor Who adventures after the original series ended. To be honest, several of those stories were better than anything we ever got with the relaunch.
What are your thoughts on the audio adventures that surround some of our favorite comic books or television shows? Let us know in the comments.
[Source: Super Hero Hype]

Celebrate 35 Years of Labyrinth With The Film’s Theatrical Return!

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For three days in September, you can witness the magic that is Jim Henson’s musical fantasy adventure Labyrinth in theatres! You’ve got to be as old as I am if you remember seeing this piece of art on the big screen and falling in love with Jennifer Connelly.
Fathom Events is hosting the event, which takes place on September 12th, 13th, and 15th. So, clear your calendars on that Sunday, Monday, or Wednesday, and join David Bowie’s Goblin King as he snatches a baby and accosts us with his bulge!
It must have been some voodoo that somebody … doodoo (?) which caused this to happen. Regardless, we can all do the Magic Dance and toss babies in the air and rejoice that something good is happening during Covid Year 2.

The 35th Anniversary screenings of Jim Henson’s Labyrinth will be preceded by a brief featurette entitled “The Henson Legacy” – Jennifer Connelly and the Henson family talk about the art of puppetry and the magic of Jim Henson, along with a visit to the “Center for Puppetry Arts” featuring The Jim Henson Collection and over 100 puppets from Labyrinth!


Labyrinth was released in 1986 and sadly did not do well during its initial run. However, VHS sales and rentals later boosted those numbers. The film and its characters have become icons and enjoy more than just a cult following today.
The fantasy feature was directed by Jim Henson and featured amazing creations from his Muppet artists. Labyrinth is a mixture of comedy, drama, lighthearted fantasy, and some darker elements. The rapid-fire pace in which the film’s mood changes could be due to several writers, including Python alum Terry Jones and the father of Star Wars, George Lucas.
Labyrinth will be in theatres for three days only. So head over to Fathom Events now and secure your admission!
[Source: Fathom Events]

MAPPA and Madhouse Reveals Visuals For ‘Takt.Op Destiny’ Anime

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Japanese studios MAPPA and Madhouse released a key visual as well as a teaser for the upcoming ‘takt.op Destiny’ anime. The show is an adaptation of the hit video game ‘Takt Op. Unmei wa Akaki Senritsu no Machi o,’ a mobile RPG from Bandai Namco Arts.
According to MyAnimeList, “In the story of the anime, one day a black meteorite fell on the world, and the world completely changed. The meteorite produced grotesque monsters called D2, which started running rampant. D2 very quickly banned all music, which was the one thing able to overcome them. But there were some people who resisted the D2. They are young women who hold the power of music, the “Musicart.” These young women hold “scores” that are able to defeat the monsters. And there are also people who lead these women, the Conductor. The anime takes place in America in the year 2047, which has fallen to ruin thanks to the D2. Takt, a Conductor, is partnered with a Musicart named Unmei. Takt yeans for music to be returned to the world, and Unmei wishes to destroy the D2. Their aim is to travel to New York.”
The official Twitter account posted the visual:


Funimation said in a press release, “The show must go on…to air next month! takt op.Destiny, an original joint production from studios MAPPA (Jujutsu Kaisen) and MADHOUSE (Hunter x Hunter), revealed the anime’s main visual, along with new cast and theme song details ahead of its October 5 premiere.”
“Joining Kouki Uchiyama (Horimiya) on the cast list is Shion Wakayama (SSSS.DYNAZENON) as Destiny, Kaede Hondo (Wandering Witch: The Journey of Elaina) as Anna Schneider, Miku Itō (The Quintessential Quintuplets) as Titan, Satoshi Hino (Overlord) as Lenny, Inori Minase (How a Realist Hero Rebuilt the Kingdom) as Heaven, Reina Ueda (Darwin’s Game) as Hell, Daisuke Namikawa (Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation) as Shindler, and Eiji Hanawa (Dragon Ball Super) as Sagan,” they said of the cast.
Funimation continued, “Yuuki Itoh (Granblue Fantasy: The Animation) will be serving as director, with Kiyoko Yoshimura (Riddle Story of Devil) on series composition, Yoshihiro Ike (Kuroko’s Basketball) as the music composer, and Reiko Nagasawa (Overlord III monster/sub-character design) as character designer with original designs by LAM. ‘takt op.Destiny’ is part of a previously announced mixed-media project produced by BANDAI NAMCO Arts and DeNA, which also includes an RPG mobile game slated for a 2021 release. Ouji Hiroi (Sakura Wars) is listed as the original creator, with conductor Hirofumi Kurita for musical research and composer Marasy as the key pianist.”
You can check out the teaser:

Guy Pearce Discusses New Sci-Fi Thriller ‘Zone 414’

Actor Guy Pearce has had a very versatile career. From historical dramas to action flicks to psychological thrillers to science fiction, he has not slowed down and shows no sign of stopping.
His newest film ‘Zone 414,’ shows him playing private investigator “David Carmichael, who is hired by android developer Marlon Veidt to find his lost daughter. David teams up with the highly advanced Jane to track down the daughter. Moving through the dangerous iron jungle, they rapidly piece together the mystery, uncovering a crime that leads them to question the origins of Zone 414 and the true purpose behind the ‘City of Robots.'”
Pearce recently sat down with Collider to discuss the film and how it plays into the “man-versus-machine” trope.
“I never do a huge amount of research in order to feel like I can play the character I’m going to play. I feel like if I have to do a whole lot of research in order to play the character then we’re in a bit of trouble,” Pearce explained. “Because usually, my spontaneous response to a script is all I need in order to play the character.”
He continued, “I certainly have to do work sometimes on finding the voice, or finding how a character might move, but that’s more finding the truth of the person that I’m delving into.”
“So that often doesn’t connect to what you might call general research about the world or the history… it depends obviously on the role you’re playing. And for David in this world, for example, he’s a total outsider. So in a way it was kind of good for me to just be the outsider and go, ‘What the f*** is this world I just entered into,” the ‘Memento’ actor added.
He went to praise his co-stars and the direction of the script while explaining how his character reacts to the cybernetic world.
“Ironically, with the advent of modern technology, it’s easier and easier to avoid having to expose our true feelings and having to be vulnerable, etcetera,” Pearce said. “And so I think the film sort of speaks to that in a way. And as an actor, obviously, I’m fascinated in emotions and feelings, it’s a truth I have to deal with all the time. So I just thought the setting of this film, and the themes, were well realized, and it just sort of took my fancy.”
‘Zone 414’ was released in September 2021 by Saban Films. Check out the trailer:

Mezco’s One:12 Collective The Crow Figure Celebrates Brandon Lee

Mezco’s One:12 Collective line of action figures is getting one of the greatest cult movie heroes of all times. Eric Draven as The Crow is joining this collection of highly detailed toys, and he comes with nearly every movie-accurate accessory you can think of.
The Crow will ship between March and May 2022. He can be pre-ordered now directly from Mezco and will set you back only $100. A $25 non-refundable deposit is due upon ordering.

Mezco
Mezco
Mezco
Mezco
Mezco
Mezco

The One:12 Collective The Crow features four head portraits with various expressions including surprised, teeth-gritting, smirking, and standard sculpts. The supernatural avenger is outfitted in a black shirt, leather-like pants, leather-like overcoat, and wears his fiancée’s engagement ring around his neck in her memory.
The Crow is brimming with film-accurate accessories including a crow-shaped flame display, a guitar with a leather-like strap, a tombstone with a crow that can sit atop, a flying crow that attaches to his display base, various weapons, and much more.
After a crow brings Eric Draven’s restless soul back from the dead, he sets out to wreak revenge upon his killers.

The resurrected Eric Draven comes with the following accessories:

  • One (1) crow-shaped flame display
  • One (1) guitar with leather-like strap
  • One (1) katana
  • One (1) Pierrot mask
  • One (1) tombstone
  • One (1) sitting crow (sits atop tombstone)
  • One (1) flying crow (attaches to display base)
  • Two (2) posing wires for crows
  • One (1) knife
  • One (1) lighter
  • One (1) Gabriel cat
  • One (1) weathervane
  • One (1) One:12 Collective display base with logo
  • One (1) One:12 Collective adjustable display post
  • One:12 Collective body with over 30 points of articulation
  • Four (4) head portraits
  • Ten (10) interchangeable hands
    • One (1) pair of fists (L&R)
    • One (1) pair of knife/sword holding hands (L&R)
    • One (1) pair of weapon holding hands (L & R)
    • One (1) pair of posing hands (L&R)
    • One (1) pointing hand (L)
    • One (1) bullet hole hand (R)

Before Blade. Before the MCU. The Crow was one of the few comic book adaptations that merged the two worlds of entertainment into a work of art. But, sadly, the cult classic film didn’t owe all its fame to just being a solid cinematic experience. A tragic accident during production took the life of the film’s star Brandon Lee.

[Source: Mezco]

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